Diagnostic value of liquid-based (ThinPrep (R)) preparations in nongynecologic cases

Most studies utilizing the liquid-based ThinPrep(R) method for the preparat ion of nongynecological specimens report a diagnostic sensitivity and speci ficity of over 90%. ThinPrep(R)-processed slides in 162 cases sent to us fr om outside laboratories were assessed for their diagnostic value. These inc luded fine-needle aspiration (FNA) (128) and other nongynecological specime ns (34), representing bronchopulmonary washings, body cavity fluids, and ur ine samples. Slides were examined independently for adequacy and diagnostic value. These results were compared with the final diagnosis rendered upon examination of the entire submitted cytologic specimens, including direct s mears, cytospins, and cell blocks. Based on review of the ThinPrep(R)-proce ssed slides alone, diagnosis of malignancy or neoplasia was made in 54 of 8 6 cases (63%), while 18/86(21%) were less than optimal and 14/86 (16%) were unsatisfactory. Pulmonary specimens, body cavity fluids, and urine were ge nerally satisfactory, while thyroid and breast FNA were more often less tha n optimal or unsatisfactory. This limited study suggests that utilization o f ThinPrep(R) processing alone may have reduced diagnostic value in the fin e-needle aspiration cases studied here. (C) 2001 Wiley-Liss, Inc.